Radiator is leaking

Discussion in 'Mechanics Garage' started by KarlR, Jul 4, 2024.

  1. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Hi All, my 86 VF500 was warming up and I noticed a wet spot under it, coolant. On further investigation I could see a small stream shooting out near the bottom of the radiator.
    I am asking the helpful people here for guidance/options for replacement or recore.
     


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  2. mello dude

    mello dude Administrator

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  3. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Thanks Mello Dude.
     


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  4. squirrelman

    squirrelman Member

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    a big glob of jbweld is likely to fixit.
     


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  5. Terry Smith

    Terry Smith Member

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    I had a local auto repair place fix the radiator on my RF900; looked ugly but kept the green stuff inside.
     


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  6. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Thanks Terry.
     


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  7. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Thanks Squirrelman. Do you know if this radiator is aluminum?
     


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  8. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    FYI
    Myler’s says it is copper and they only do aluminum.
     


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  9. squirrelman

    squirrelman Member

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    mostly is.

    sand and clean a dime-sized area around the leak and apply JB, wait 24 hrs. ive had a similar patch on an '86 vfr rad for about 25 years w no probs.........yet.
     
    Last edited: Jul 5, 2024


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  10. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    OK, I will try that. Thank you.
     


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  11. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Got it off and stripped down. Did a pressure test. It is leaking from between fins in at least two places. Do you think the JB Weld is still a good solution? I can’t even see the exact spot of the holes.
     


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  12. bmart

    bmart Insider

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    If you have one leak from age/corrosion, you'like have or will soon have more.
     


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  13. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    so what are my options now? Another used one from the web.
     


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  14. squirrelman

    squirrelman Member

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    replacement rad needed, but it doesnt cost much to try JB if you find the hole.
     
    Last edited: Jul 6, 2024


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  15. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    My thoughts exactly. Any suggestions on a new one that isn’t $600 and a close match?
     


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  16. squirrelman

    squirrelman Member

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    no clue. may be a chinese copy available, quality unknown.
     


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  17. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    JB weld fixed one leak and two others showed up. I will try again, but I ordered a new aluminum radiator from the Netherlands. It was expensive $680, but my wife likes her mini ceptor.
    I am also replacing the thermostat since the coolant is drained, and a new fan switch.
     


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  18. bmart

    bmart Insider

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    You're going to play whack a mole that way. And you'll eventually, sooner than later, be on a ride far from home when it blows...
     


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  19. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Yep, I agree. New aluminum radiator on order from CMSNL. I hope it fits right in.
     


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  20. KarlR

    KarlR New Member

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    Well the new rad came yesterday and I installed it without any issues. It is an exact replica of the Honda part. Highly recommend.
    Pics of old and new. IMG_1353.jpeg
     


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